Sydney, resplendent day or night, is easy to love. But, if you’re looking to escape the rush of the city for a weekend getaway in regional NSW, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve handpicked a collection of the best weekend getaways from Sydney that are perfect for a luxury escape from the city. Each of these beautiful retreats promises plenty of rest and relaxation for your next weekend away, and all are within a few hours of Sydney.
Hunter Valley
Located just a couple of hours’ drive from Sydney, the Hunter Valley is known for its beautiful scenery, great wine, and friendly locals. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family holiday, the Hunter Valley has something for everyone. Local attractions include world-class wineries and wine tours, golf courses, spas, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning. There are also plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s both fun and relaxing, the Hunter Valley Region is the perfect place to visit.
Spicers Guesthouse, Pokolbin
A luxe boutique hotel located in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Spicers Guesthouse is a favourite for those looking for relaxed, laid-back luxury. Here you can enjoy world-class food and wine against a backdrop of rolling vineyards & mountain ranges before retiring to your luxuriously appointed guest room.
Chateau Elan At The Vintage, Pokolbin
Surrounded by rolling vineyards and overlooking manicured fairways, Chateau Elan At The Vintage is an award-winning golf & spa resort in the beautiful Hunter Valley. Choose from luxury spa suites and self-contained villas that promise absolute comfort, privileged spa access and total privacy.
Rydges Resort Hunter Valley, Lovedale
Rydges Resort Hunter Valley has a range of beautiful guest rooms to choose from. From Kids Suites specially designed for young families to Resort Villas with up to 3 bedrooms, comfort and luxury await you at a range of price points. Enjoy Redsalt Restaurant’s gourmet buffet breakfast, Lovedale Bistro’s wide selection of classic meals, or Lovedale Café’s lighter servings. Looking for a nightcap? The bartender at Vista Lounge can make handcrafted cocktails that you can enjoy by the cosy fire.
Spicers Vineyards Estate, Pokolbin
One of the most awarded destinations in the Hunter Valley, Spicers Vineyards Estate has 12 luxury suites, each equipped with its own fireplace. Find solace in one of the King Spa Rooms, Luxury Spa Rooms or Vineyards House that are all nestled in the 8-acre vineyard. Spend your weekend away dining at Restaurant Botanica overlooking the private vineyard, and enjoy a hot stone massage and other full-body treatments at Spa Anise when you book a stay.
Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains make for the perfect weekend getaway where you can escape the hustle and bustle of Sydney and enjoy majestic mountain views. Just a short drive from the city, this World Heritage-listed region is renowned for its eucalyptus forests, cliffs and waterfalls. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, be sure to pack your bathers! There are several swimming holes located throughout the area where you can cool off during a day of exploring. Check out these hotels and resorts for that relaxing Blue Mountains escape.
Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains, Leura
Just a 90-minute drive from Sydney, Fairmont Resort & Spa in the Blue Mountains is perched on the cusp of the dramatic Jamison Valley in this spectacular World Heritage-listed National Park. This impressive mountain resort offers an extensive range of dining options and a host of leisure facilities that are suitable for the whole family.
Chalets at Blackheath
Perched atop the highest point of the Blue Mountains, Chalets at Blackheath will treat you to intimate views of rugged sandstone formations, surrounding eucalyptus forests, and the wonder of ancient aboriginal sites. Featuring an almost cubist look, think of it as a deluxe cabin-like getaway with beautiful natural stone interiors blending perfectly with the warm wooden floors and metal accents. The self-contained chalets are bright and airy, offer maximum privacy, and have personalised concierge service.
Kyah Boutique Hotel, Blackheath
Boho chic in soft pastels… Kyah Boutique Hotel will treat you to a calming getaway in the Blue Mountains. Minimalist yet playful, there’s a classic Hollywood Glamour everywhere you turn. The hotel has 3 wings with 46 rooms, keeping the mood quiet and relaxed. Make sure to try the hyper-local seasonal menu from Blaq for a literal taste of the freshest produce from the Blue Mountains.
Lilianfels Resort & Spa, Katoomba
Set on the edge of Blue Mountains National Park, Lilianfels Resort & Spa is an award-winning hotel in Katoomba. This mountain getaway offers boutique rooms richly decorated with organza and silk, and equipped with modern amenities for the ultimate in comfort and luxury. With picturesque views and scenic attractions, this hotel is an idyllic escape, bringing the beauty of nature right to your doorstep.
Spicers Sangoma Retreat, Bowen Mountain
Nestled on the edge of Blue Mountains National Park, Spicers Sangoma Retreat is an intimate boutique hotel with only 5 luxurious suite types to choose from. Catering to adults only, the rates at Sangoma are all-inclusive, which means that your breakfast, lunch and dinner are all included along with drinks and access to the minibar. Get ready for a weekend of indulgence when staying at the gorgeous Spicers Sangoma.
Echoes Boutique Hotel, Katoomba
Sat above the Jamison Valley, Echoes Boutique Hotel and Restaurant offers stunning views of the National Park from each of its 14 guestrooms. Rejuvenate your senses at Echoes Spa where you can choose from a range of body treatments and facial and massage therapies. You can also indulge in romantic fine dining at the restaurant and bar with the mountains as your backdrop!
North Coast
The North Coast is packed with stunning beaches, lush forests and plenty of activities to keep you entertained. The weather in this region is usually great for a beach holiday! There are plenty of great things to see and do on the North Coast apart from chilling on the beach though. For nature lovers, make sure to visit one of the many national parks, the Stockton Sand Dunes, or take a bushwalk and enjoy the surrounds. If you’re after a more relaxed weekend away, there’s no shortage of quaint cafes and restaurants to enjoy, plus lovely shops to explore.
Sails Port Macquarie
Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges is a beautiful waterfront hotel in Port Macquarie featuring elegant rooms & suites, a contemporary restaurant, a selection of bars, and a private jetty. Here you can relax in a private cabana by the heated pool, throw a line from the jetty, or go for a paddle in one of the hotel’s complimentary kayaks.
88SOUTH, Boomerang Beach
Overlooking the golden sands of Boomerang Beach, 88SOUTH is an architecturally designed home that is perfect for a family or group of friends. Featuring 5 bedrooms, multiple living spaces and decorated with modern furnishings, you’ll instantly feel the ‘beach-vibe’ the moment you arrive. Spend your days lazying around the 13-metre lap pool or at the beach. It’s a hard life.
Anchorage Port Stephens, Corlette
Experience Hamptons-chic luxury and seaside style at its finest at The Anchorage Hotel & Spa in Port Stephens. With gorgeous guest rooms to choose from, a renowned restaurant serving world-class food, and an insanely luxurious day spa, this is the stuff romantic dreams and amazing weekend getaways from Sydney are made of.
Bannisters Port Stephens, Soldiers Point
Bannisters Port Stephens is surrounded by water, koala habitat and a sense of peace and seclusion. Here you can wake up in your stylish guest room or suite before spending the day by the pool where you can relax & take in the stunning views. Later, dine in the renowned Rick Stein restaurant where you can enjoy the finest locally sourced ingredients from ocean to plate every day.
Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle
Welcome to Kingsley – Newcastle’s first five-star luxury hotel. Boasting seriously sophisticated rooms, Kingsley is culturally connected, sustainably led and steeped in history. The hotel offers a relaxed deli-style cafe, an elegant cocktail lounge and a rooftop restaurant where you can take in the city’s stunning views.
Central Coast
One of the best things about the Central Coast is that it’s so easy to get to, which is why it’s one of the most popular weekend getaway destinations for Sydneysiders. There are beautiful beaches and plenty of things to do. It’s home to some of Australia’s best beaches, so if you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun, Terrigal Beach, Avoca Beach and Copacabana Beach are just some of the places to go to. If you’re after something a little more active, then try your hand at surfing at one of the many surf beaches, such as MacMasters Beach, or go for a walk in one of the many national parks. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and find your private sanctuary in these Central Coast hotels and resorts.
Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific, Terrigal
Airy and bright, Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific is a deluxe beach accommodation in Terrigal. Centrally located, this coastal resort offers the perfect base from which to have a little adventure and explore the delights of the Central Coast. Each of the light-filled rooms and suites will make you feel welcome, complete with furnished balconies where you can soak up the stunning ocean views and sea breeze.
Pullman Magenta Shores Resort
Only 90 minutes from Sydney, Pullman Magenta Shores Resort boasts a golf course, tennis court, gym, pool, day spa & an exceptional beachfront location. Nestled between the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean and Tuggerah Lake, this Central Coast resort offers a choice of studio guest rooms or self-contained 1, 2, or 3-bedroom apartments perfect for families or groups.
Mercure Kooindah Waters, Wyong
Mercure Kooindah Waters Golf Resort is one of those places where the pace slows the moment you arrive. Here you can totally relax whilst enjoying the brilliant sunshine, gourmet food and wine, and endless recreation facilities on offer, all just 90 minutes from Sydney. With a choice of rooms & apartments, this is a perfect getaway for groups small or large.
South Coast
The South Coast offers beautiful beaches and idyllic oceanfront escapes. Enjoy Shoalhaven and Jervis Bay, skydiving in Wollongong, marvel at Kiama’s famed blowhole or experience some treetop adventures. There’s an activity and hideaway for everyone. The region is also home to many national parks, which are perfect for hiking, biking or just exploring and getting your dose of nature. Make the most out of your stay on the South Coast at these luxury hotels.
Bannisters Pavilion Mollymook
Situated just 80 metres from the shores of Mollymook Beach, Bannisters Pavilion boasts stylish, beach-chic rooms and suites that are the perfect choice for a coastal getaway. The Pavilion promises a laidback escape where you can spend sunny days poolside and eat and drink in the relaxed tree-top atmosphere of The Rooftop Bar & Grill.
Headlands Austinmer Beach
Looking for a seaside escape? The self-contained guest rooms at Headlands Austinmer Beach on the South Coast of NSW feature kitchens and laundry facilities, making them the perfect choice for a family getaway. Each room has a private balcony where you can enjoy a complimentary breakfast while admiring the ocean view. The crisp modern interiors will calm your busy thoughts and ensure ultimate relaxation.
Wildes Kangaroo Valley
Drive inland and find the perfect haven for relaxation after an adventure-filled day exploring the Kangaroo Valley. Wildes Hotel Kangaroo Valley features 23 chic boutique-style studios and suites designed to indulge your adventurous spirit. We love the fun and vibrant pops of colour that energise the rooms!
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Southern Highlands
If you’re looking to experience the slow pace of country life, the Southern Highlands is the place to be. About 2 hours away from Sydney, you can enjoy Bowral’s tulips around September, antique shopping in small boutiques, wine tasting in any of about 60 wineries in the region, and hiking through the bushland or embarking on wildlife tours. With several townships to explore, you’re sure to find a relaxing weekend hideaway in this stunning region.
Osborn House, Bundanoon
A bespoke experience awaits you at Osborn House where you’ll be surrounded by the rolling hills, lush gardens, and sweeping bushlands of the Southern Highlands. This lovely boutique hotel has 22 distinct rooms, a day spa, pool, sauna and steam room. Take a step back and enjoy the surrounding nature in luxurious accommodation paired with a more personalised experience.
Peppers Manor House, Sutton Forest
A scenic 90-minute drive from Sydney, Peppers Manor House is a boutique hotel in the beautiful Southern Highlands. Set in Sutton Forest, just 15 minutes from Bowral, this is an elegant country estate that oozes world charm. Whether you’re strolling through nature, playing croquet, relaxing beside the pool, or sipping afternoon tea, you’ll find this a welcome escape from city life.
Looking for more options for your weekend getaways from Sydney? Browse our full collection of luxury accommodation in New South Wales.
Image credit: Spicers Guesthouse
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